Ave!

Celtic, Sea Lion, Talisman or Amulet, ca. 7th-4th Cent BC

Copper alloy; 28mm/3.3gm

Con/ Dark green patina with minor traces of corrosion, otherwise, As Cast and Engraved. 

Seller's Note/ The ancient Celtic tribes all had an especial affinity with water, whether birds or beasts, rivers, swamps, springs, streams, and even wells.

Ground-found in the environs of an ancient Celtic settlement south of the Drava river, we have no doubt, whatsoever, that this delightfully rendered swimming sea lion, was a talisman that provided protection against evil influences or other dangers, to the bearer. Most likely this talisman was kept safe in a small leather bag or pouch, perhaps along with other similar protective amulets. Our best guess that this belonged to either a man or a woman who traveled by boat on seas and rivers.